A unique, atmospheric murder mystery/crime thriller, this Korean film won awards around the world. When a mother works to convince the authorities that her mentally challenged son’s murder conviction is a mistake. The film explores the lengths to which a mother will go to protect her son, as she enters the dark, chaotic world of Korea’s cities.

San Francisco Chronicle, Amy Biancolli: An alluring piece of work, an artful whodunit that melds shrewd plotting with resourceful camera work and sympathetic characters that are fascinatingly, morbidly off.

Wall Street Journal, Joe Morgenstern: An absolutely phenomenal film by the Korean director Bong Joon-ho.

Salon.com, Andrew O’Hehir: Its combination of dazzling cinematic craft, psychological insight and black humor make this one of the year’s moviegoing musts — and even or especially at her most deranged, Kim Hye-ja’s amazing mother is profoundly, passionately human.

Entertainment Weekly, Lisa Schwarzbaum: Another must-see marvel of horror, comedy, and impeccable filmmaking by the Korean director Bong Joon-ho.

Boxoffice Magazine, Barbara Goslawski: Bong’s stylistic embellishment of the simple tale of a mother who will do anything to protect her son is breathtaking.